Starhub first to offer 1Gbps mobile network

StarHub has switched on Singapore’s first commercially-ready 1Gbps network for its mobile customers as the industry looks towards 5G.

As part of its ongoing network modernisation, StarHub is boosting peak 4G speeds to 1Gbps from the current 400Mbps, the telecommunications company said in a press release.

Customers on its Unlimited Weekend mobile postpaid plans can simply switch to a 1Gbps-capable phone and surf up to twice as fast as before.

Compatible phone models include the Huawei Mate 10 Pro, and Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+ as well as the new Huawei P20 and P20 Pro, and Sony Xperia XZ2.

First deployed in Marina Bay, StarHub’s gigabit network now covers the Central Business District as well as key shopping areas, transport hubs and heartland town centres. These include Bedok, Bishan, Chinatown, Clarke Quay, Clementi, Orchard Road and Tampines. Coverage will be expanded to other high-traffic areas in stages based on network traffic insights.

In addition, StarHub's network modernisation will enable Narrowband-IoT (NB-IoT), which will provide connectivity for the deployment of IoT devices to support Singapore's Smart Nation drive. Data collected from these sensors will allow enterprises to glean insights that can be used to improve operational efficiency and aid in long-term planning.

Photo: Connected to India

“Amid the growing appetite for mobile data, we are maximising the use of our spectrum assets for customers to enjoy enhanced network speed and service quality before 5G arrives,” said Chong Siew Loong, Chief Technology Officer at StarHub.​

StarHub and Nokia have signed a multi-year agreement under which Nokia will deploy network upgrades using its advanced radio access, small cells, virtualised core and IP routing technologies as well as its cloud orchestration and signalling, network management, security, IoT, self-organising network and session border controller software.

"By pushing the boundaries of technology in collaboration with Nokia, we want to bolster Singapore’s standing as one of the world’s fastest, smartest and most connected countries," said Chong.

“We are pleased to continue our longstanding relationship with StarHub. Drawing on our end-to-end network and services expertise, we are able to implement solutions that will enable StarHub to manage the ever-growing and changing needs of people and enterprises in Singapore,” said Nicolas Bouverot, Head of Asia South Market Unit at Nokia.